Etihad Airways Expands with New Abu Dhabi–Medina Flights

Etihad Airways has proudly inaugurated direct flights connecting Abu Dhabi and Medina, marking a notable growth in its Saudi Arabian operations. The inaugural flight this week was sold out, indicating a robust demand for this new route.

This enhancement brings Etihad’s flights to five cities in Saudi Arabia, which include Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Al Qassim, and now Medina, totaling 93 weekly flights. This route is part of Etihad’s broader strategy, which has seen the addition of 31 new destinations in the past year, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a key travel hub.

Flight Schedule Tailored for Travelers

Etihad will operate five flights a week using an Airbus A321, with plans to increase frequency to six later this year. The service includes both Business and Economy classes to ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers.

• Flight EY631 departs from Abu Dhabi at 08:55, reaching Medina at 10:50 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

• Flight EY633 leaves Abu Dhabi via Medina at 14:30, arriving at 16:25 on Wednesdays and Fridays.

• Return flights EY632 and EY634 operate in the afternoon and evening, arriving back in Abu Dhabi the same day.

Travelers visiting Medina can also benefit from Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme, which offers two complimentary nights in select hotels, aimed at highlighting Abu Dhabi as a global culture, leisure, and entertainment hub.

Growing Presence in the Middle East

Etihad's new service to Medina underscores its dedication to enhancing connectivity throughout the Middle East. Medina attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists each year due to its deep cultural and spiritual significance.

“Medina holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for millions, and we are privileged to offer convenient travel options through Abu Dhabi to this significant city,” remarked Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.

Recently, Etihad has also broadened its global reach with new routes including Medan, Phnom Penh, Addis Ababa, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Hong Kong, and Tunis. These enhancements reflect the airline’s goal to connect Abu Dhabi with vital growth markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Goals

Etihad’s increasing presence in Saudi Arabia aligns with the Kingdom’s larger tourism ambitions, contributing to its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims for 150 million visitors annually. The Abu Dhabi–Medina route is expected to stimulate travel, business opportunities, and cultural exchange between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Through this new route, Etihad further establishes itself as a primary airline in the region, ensuring seamless, comfortable, and culturally enriching travel experiences.